Drava River gold panning tradition continues in Croatia

Traditional gold panning continues along the Drava River in Croatia, where locals use ancestral knowledge to locate small gold particles in river sediment. Practitioners like Vladimir Štefić Šćuka and Robert Nestić explain that the process involves identifying specific river meanders, reddish sand, and natural barriers formed by larger stones where gold grains tend to settle.

The craft is supported by historical precedent; records indicate that Empress Maria Theresa granted permission for gold panning on the Drava as far back as June 21, 1776. While the gold found is typically small particles rather than large nuggets, the enthusiasts use traditional tools and techniques passed down through generations to separate the precious metal from sand and gravel.